Is an Extended Honeymoon Right for You?

A never-ending honeymoon may sound like every newlywed's dream, but actually extending your travels weeks (or even months) is surprisingly a lot of work. Here are some expert-approved questions to ask yourself (and your fiancé) before booking those round-the-world flights.

What do your ideal vacations look like?

You dream of sun and sand, while he's envisioning days spent exploring cities. Is your honeymoon doomed? Not if you're up for compromise, according to HoneyTrek Trip Coach founders Anne and Mike Howard, who help travelers planning lengthy vacations (and went on a 675-day honeymoon themselves!). "If she's a history-buff and he's an outdoorsman, take turns going to her pick of museums and his choice of nature excursions," they suggest. "Or better yet, find the places where your interests intersect, like hiking to the ancient civilization of Machu Picchu or biking the Temples of Angkor Wat."

Is it financially feasible?

There's no way around it: a longer honeymoon equals more expenses, which can be tough if you're leaving your job behind. While surveying your finances may seem discouraging, the Howards say creative planning has helped their clients go a long way on a low budget. "If you pick your destinations wisely, learn a few travel hacks, and prioritize experiences over excessive luxury, an extended honeymoon is more affordable than you'd think."

For some travelers, it's all about communing with nature, while others won't settle for a room without a keycard. If you've lived together in the past, you may be more in-tune to each other's preferences, but if not, now's the time to lay those cards on the table. Anne and Mike urge couples to be flexible in this stage. "Sometimes, you may stay in a hotel that wasn't in your honeymoon dreams, but the experience of getting off the tourist track is more valuable than any set of high-thread count sheets."

What do you want out of your honeymoon?

Whether it's ticking off bucket-list items or simply spending quality time with your S.O., taking time to assess your motivations will allow you to really understand whether or not this major step is right for you. If you and your fiancé do find yourselves gravitating towards an extended trip, the Howards say this is the best possible time to make it work. "This time as newlyweds, while you are young, healthy, and kid-free, is precious. There is no better time to travel than now and no better way to celebrate your marriage."